Governor Maura Healey has filed legislation that would provide $1.2 billion in transportation investments over four years to support municipal infrastructure across Massachusetts. This proposal, announced at the Massachusetts Municipal Association’s Connect 351 Conference, represents a major early step in the 2026 legislative session. You can read the full announcement in the Governor’s press release.
Key elements of the proposal include:
- Chapter 90 Program funding maintained at $300 million per year. This level preserves a significant increase over traditional base funding and provides municipalities with greater predictability for planning and delivering local road and bridge work.
- $500 million for the Accelerated Local and State Transportation Program at MassDOT. Intended to accelerate repairs and improvements to state roads and bridges, particularly those in poor condition.
- $200 million for the Rail Enhancement and Reliability Program. This funding would support efforts to enhance commuter rail and other rail infrastructure.
- $200 million for the Transportation Infrastructure Program to Support Housing. These funds would help communities address infrastructure barriers to housing development, including roadways, sidewalks, intersections, safety features, and traffic improvements.
- $200 million for improvements under the Department of Conservation and Recreation through the PRISM Program. This includes parkways, bridges, and shared-use paths aimed at improving safety and resilience.
- Expanded support for the Municipal Pavement Program and Shared Streets and Spaces Grant Program, helping communities invest in roadway resurfacing, safety improvements, pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, downtown enhancements, and other local transportation priorities.
According to the Administration, these investments are intended to help municipalities manage rising construction costs, address deferred maintenance, improve safety, and support economic growth and climate resilience.
The filing of this proposal marks the first step of the legislative process and will be subject to review, discussion, and potential changes as it moves through the Legislature.
ACEC/MA will be actively monitoring the bill’s progress and keeping members informed as the legislative process unfolds.
A copy of the Governor’s filing letter can be found here.